60 Minutes this week has a follow up on Emma the girl who captured the heart of a nation.
Fatal Flaw
The Robinson R44 is one of the most popular helicopters in Australia. It’s commonly used by small business, tourism operators, and in regional Australia. For nearly twenty years it’s been allowed to fly, despite mounting proof it’s a death trap. It has a faulty fuel tank, that can explode on impact, turning minor and survivable accidents – into deadly infernos. In a special 2 year investigation, 60 Minutes has uncovered dozens of crashes – blamed for the deaths of 78 people in the past 10 years alone. And despite evidence they knew all along, the manufacturer Robinson, and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, did nothing. Worse still, they’re now facing the same deadly problem with the smaller R22.
Reporter: Allison Langdon
Producer: Gareth Harvey
Emma
Last month, we broadcast the story of nine-year-old Emma Hayes. Emma has gender dysphoria – born as a boy, but in her mind she’s a girl. Her parents Meagan and David granted her wish – to live and dress as a girl – and attend school as Emma. They told their story with the hope of creating awareness and acceptance. We’re pleased to say Emma has been completely embraced – and not just by her school and local community. Thousands of people were inspired by Emma’s courage, including The Veronicas, who invited her over to share some of their “girl power”.
Reporter: Karl Stefanovic
Producer: Steve Jackson
Known Unto God
Ever since the mass grave holding hundreds of Australian Diggers was unearthed in the corner of a French field, outside the village of Fromelles, the race has been on to identify the remains, and give each soldier a proper farewell. Slowly, the words ‘Known Unto God’ are replaced on different headstones, with the name, age and rank of the fallen Digger. Sam Ridler was one of those young soldiers. For almost a century he was ‘missing in action’. But now, 97 years after he vanished, an inspiring detective story, crossing the continent, and using DNA, has changed all that. And finally Sam’s nephew – a WWII veteran himself – can say goodbye. And you’ll be moved when you see how he does it.
Reporter: Michael Usher
Producers: Howard Sacre, Ali Smith
7:30pm Sunday on Nine
source 9